Henry Langman

Henry Douglas Langman, age 84, of Manawa, passed away on Thursday, October 31, 2013. He was born on March 8, 1929, the son of David and Ellen (Kettleson) Langman. Hank spent his entire life living locally and working hard for his education and employment. The son of sharecropping parents, Hank's childhood was spent moving often during the Great Depression. He never finished a year of grade school in the same town. By the eighth grade, he lived with neighbors rather than move with his family again in order to finally stay in the same school. He did chores twice a day for his room and board. Upon moving to Manawa at the age of 13, he met the love of his life, Verna Mae Handrich, and they married at age 19 on July 24, 1948 at St. Paul Lutheran Church, Manawa. Even as a young man, Hank was known for his big cigars and bigger heart. He was a strong man and a great athlete who played semi-professional football for the Wausau Muskies, earning extra money to support his growing family. By the age of 28 and with four children, Hank and Verna lost their house near Bear Lake to a fire and moved into Manawa. There, they provided their children with a warm and loving home where many happy memories were made. Hank became a master journeyman machinist and was a respected mentor to those entering the field. When Hank finally retired after many years at RE&D in New London, Verna bought him his first new bicycle - he'd never had one. Hank and Verna enjoyed a loving and companionable marriage. After 55 years together, Verna passed away on December 7, 2003. With strength, courage, and grace, Hank survived her passing as well the loss of his loving daughter Terri. We are comforted knowing they are forever reunited. Henry was loved dearly by his children and grandchildren: Donna (Larry) Johnson - parents of Mark, Kristine and Loreen, Douglas (Cindy) Langman -parents of Christian, Jordan, and Rachel, Terri (Roy) Amador - parents of Max and Kayla, and Thomas Langman, Tom's former wife, Laura and their children - Ryan, Eric, Katelyn and Adam. Hank was the proud great-grandpa of 10 great-grandchildren. He is further survived by his brother, Jim (Norma) Langman, Anchorage, Alaska, a sister-in-law, Margie Handrich, Manawa, and nieces and nephews. A memorial service for Hank will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Wednesday, November 6, 2013 at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Manawa with Rev. Vilas Mazemke officiating. Burial will follow in Little Wolf Cemetery. Visitation will be held at the church from 11:00 a.m. until the time of the service.